AT the End of the Bench

AT the end of the Bench by Dr. Robert Bradley is a good read for prospective and new Athletic Trainers to the profession. With 32 years of experience as an AT, Dr. Bradley has some advice and wisdom for those who are not so new to the profession as well. Robert, what is one of your favorite stories to share from your AT career? When I was a student, the sidelines were muddy, and it was pouring rain. SE Missouri University Assisting a softball player after recovering from a stroke at the age of 19.  She was able return to play eventually. Take us back to the very beginning. What is your first memory of an Athletic Trainer? I was cut from the basketball team as a junior in high school.  I went to a cramer first aider camp and the rest is history. What made you become an Athletic Trainer? My father was a coach, and I understood that side of the game. I did not enjoy the competition part. This was the best of both worlds for me. How long until the “honeymoon” period was over for you? Worked at a high school in Saint Louis Then went to college athletics When I stepped into the administrative role, things changed for me. How do we stay in the “honeymoon phase”? Depends on your desires If you just want to be in the traditional role and avoid the admin work, then you may stay in that phase forever. Why did you switch?   I had a talent for organization and administration. I still cover sporting events at the local college. What do you wish you knew going into AT? The chapters that were most fun to write Coaches – I want ATs to understand the coach’s perspective Contact: Robert Bradley – rlbatc@gmail.com Benjamin Stephenson – @_benstephenson on IG These people LOVE Athletic Trainers and help support the podcast: Frio Hydration – Superior Hydration products. Xothrm – Best heating pad available – Use “SMB” or email info@xothrm.com and mention the Sports Medicine Broadcast Donate and get some swag (like Patreon but for the school) HOIST – No matter your reason for dehydration DRINK HOIST MedBridge Education – Use “TheSMB” to save some money, be entered in a drawing for a second year free, and support the podcast. Marc Pro – Use “THESMB” to recover better. Athletic Dry Needling – Save up to $100 when registering through our link.

You can listen to AT the End of the Bench online on Radio and Podcast. Open the player on this page to stream the available audio.

AT the End of the Bench is an episode from Sports Medicine Broadcast by Jeremy Jackson.

This episode is 29:14 long.

This episode was published on Jan 21, 2026.

Yes. Use the heart button on the episode page to add it to your favorite episodes list.

Yes. This page shows related episodes from Sports Medicine Broadcast when more episodes are available from the podcast feed.